Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Taffeta Flower Tutorial

Ok , forget the manicure, I'm just going to do this!! Here is the tutorial for the taffeta flowers I've been promising forever! I took a free class at a great fabric store called Triad to learn how to make these:

Once you make the first one, you will see how you can vary the shape and sizes of the petals. So, let's start!
Here is the material list: 30 gauge wire, floral tape, taffeta (must be synthetic, to melt it), stamen for the middle is optional.

Begin by cutting at least 6 petals of each size. Flat end on fold of fabric.

Keep the sizes in separate piles, thru out this process. Now cut the wire in about 6" lengths, we will use one piece to wire each petal, like this:

The wire is bent over the middle of the flower, then twisted, tight!( Sorry about the picture)

Finish wiring all petals tightly and set aside in separate size piles. Next we are going to melt the edges of each petal. First spread it open, then (I use a lighter, have at least 3 on hand to switch between them, they get HOT)

When these are all finished, we will start the assembly process. Start with a stamen, (optional) or the smallest petal. Add another small petal. The most important part is to keep all the petals at the same level (were the wire meets the fabric). Keep adding petals, twist the wires together, turn the petals as you add them.

See how the petals are all at the same level? You do not need a gentle hand while doing this. Now just keep going adding larger and larger petals (twisting the wire as you go) until you like the way it looks. There are no rules.

When you add all the petals, twist all the wires together as tight as possible, I use a pliers at this point. Finish with floral tape, starting as close as possible to the top of the bunch, pinch and twisting the tape all the way down to the length you desire.

Voila! a beautiful flower!

Now that you made your first flower, you can experiment with the shapes of the petals and the sizes, and color, add wired lace or whatever.
And it would be great if you sent a link with your design, I would love to see them! Have fun!

About Me

I am a Mom, wife, Brand new grandma! crafter, sewer, all around fixer! Owner and designer of Do-Rah! designs. New to the internet,(getting older by the minute!) with my first blog. Welcome to my little piece of the world! There is nothing better than knowing that your blog is actually being enjoyed, I love reading your comments! Thanks a million for leaving them!